IOC responds to silica dust study findings in Labrador City

The Iron Ore Company of Canada says it is working to reduce the amount of dust workers are exposedto.

Last week the steelworkers union local in Labrador City told the CBC findings from a long awaited silica dust study were somewhat worrying.

Of 636 people tested, 86 showed some lung abnormalities and 35 people hadsuspected cases of silicosis, some of which had already been reported.

• IOC silica dust study results 'a little bit alarming': Steelworkers union

Silicosis is a lung disease which causes scarring on the tissues of the lung. It shows up a number of years after exposure and can increase the risk of other diseases including lung cancer.

The provincial government said people who took part in the study have been informed of their results.

In a statement the IOC saidit supported the "follow up dust study" as part of its commitment to the health and safety of its workers.

"We encourage any current or former employees who have concerns to see their doctor, or to contact IOC Occupational Health for support," the statement read.

IOC said it would comment further on the study once it has been finalised.